Being the Church

THL113 / THL461

This subject examines the scriptural, theological and sacramental bases for the identity and mission of the church in the twenty-first century. The emergence of the ecumenical movement will be discussed, as will contemporary critiques of the church related to the history of colonialism, the abuse of power and the end of Christendom.

Duration

One Semester

Availability

Semester 2 every year

Subject Points

8

Core/Elective

Delivery Mode

On site at St Francis College Milton; or Externally – log in to listen and participate or view the lecture via video later.

Prerequisites

None

Karkkainen, Veli-Matti, An Introduction to Ecclesiology: Ecumenical, Historical & Global Perspectives ISBN: 9780830826889

Stone, Bryan P., (2012) A Reader in Ecclesiology ISBN: 9781409428565 

The year of publication and ISBN given corresponds to the copy placed in Closed Reserve at the Roscoe Library; there may be other valid ISBNs that differ because of a different publisher or format. Please contact your lecturer or the Roscoe Library staff to confirm text before purchasing. If purchasing, we recommend that you use booko.com.au.

Prescribed Texts

To be confirmed annually as the subject is offered

Assessments

Content

This subject will cover the following topics:

  • The church according to the New Testament

  • The relation between Israel, Jesus and the church

  • The church as sacramental community

  • The church as missionary community

  • The twentieth century ecumenical movement

  • Contemporary critiques of the church related to the history of colonialism, the abuse of power and the end of Christendom

  • The church in its cultural and national contexts

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:

  • be able to articulate the scriptural, theological and sacramental foundations of the Christian church;

  • be able to discuss theological issues relating to the unity and diversity of the church across history;

  • be able to reflect critically on the relations between the mission of the church and its varied contexts: cultural, political and geographical;

  • be able to demonstrate an understanding of contemporary critiques of the church related to the history of colonialism, the abuse of power and the end of Christendom; and

  • be able to demonstrate self-guided learning, including basic research, writing and communication skills.